
“Symbiosis of the Red Bellied Woodpecker and the Eastern Bluebird,” a mural by Jacob Dwyer on the Phoenix West building at 117 N. First St. | Photo by Sally Bjork
“The birds are from a mural by Jacob Dwyer on the Phoenix West building at 117 N. First St.,” writes Kathy Scott about May’s photo. The mural is titled “Symbiosis of the Red Bellied Woodpecker and the Eastern Bluebird,” says Janine Hutchinson. “I’ve seen this many times, but turned to the [Ann Arbor Art Center] Murals Map to get the exact details,” writes Tricia Jones. “When I take friends on a downtown mural tour, it is always a highlight,” says Amy Barnett.
“In terms of being educational,” says Dave Bicknell, referring to the clue, “it depicts the symbiotic relationship between the red-bellied woodpecker and the Eastern bluebird.” “The woodpecker creates holes for nesting in the spring and roosting in the winter,” says Barb Tester. “When the Eastern bluebird migrates back to Michigan in the spring, they find a hole for nesting left by the woodpecker.” “The original recyclers you could say,” quips avid birder David Karl. “It’s always fun to see a mural where the artist depicts birds so realistically and in natural settings. Bravo Jake.”
We received 28 correct entries in May. Our random drawing winner, Neal Clinthorn, will enjoy his $25 gift certificate at Vestergaard Farms. To enter this month’s contest, use the image and clue above and send your answer to backpage@aaobserver.com.
Note to I Spy fans! I will be signing my book I Spy… Architecture at Gutman Gallery (118 N. Fourth Ave.) on Sat., June 15, from 1–5 p.m. Stop by and say hi!